This chapter introduces the argument, situates the study in the theoretical literature, and outlines the path of the book. The chapter introduces key definitions and concepts, such as revolution, social movements, and rebellions. The chapter also demonstrates that individual decisions to protest are affected by structural factors and that emotions affect how people make decisions. By explaining the relationship between structural factors and rational choice decision-making, this chapter sets the stage for how political opportunities, mobilizing structures, and framing processes intersected with emotions to influence individuals’ decisions to either engage or not engage in collective action during the Egyptian Revolution.
